Will Muir's second-half try secured Dubai Sevens bronze for England in the opening World Series of the season, as they beat Samoa in a tense play-off.
After losing to New Zealand in the semi-finals, England edged past the Pacific Island nation 19-17 to finish on the podium.
Tom Bowen gave England an early lead before Alamanda Motuga and Paul Scanlon responded.
Brought into the final day’s squad following an injury to Ethan Waddleton, Richard de Carpentier crossed to ensure England held a narrow advantage at the break.
The second period was a closely-fought affair, Tofatu Solia edging Samoa ahead before Muir had the final say.
“I’m really delighted to get on the podium for the first tournament, particularly with the lack of training time a number of these players have had," head coach Simon Amor said.
"There wasn’t much left in the legs in that last game as the guys gave absolutely everything in the first ones.
“With five out of the six games being one-score games, it shows just how tight the World Series will be this year and how important the effort was that the players continually showed.
“We did some good stuff on occasions but probably made quite a few mistakes and didn’t quite click as a team but I think that’ll come with time.
“It’s a good start for the team on the World Series.”
Another last-gasp Muir try sent England through to the semi-finals at the expense of France early on Saturday, as they secured a 19-12 win.
However, New Zealand had too much in the semi-finals, also winning 19-12.
Sportsbeat 2019